Tips for Using I-file for Your Ohio State Taxes

It’s almost that time of the year, again. Tax season. If you are like a lot of people you are not only thinking about this time, you are also beginning to prepare your papers a little.

If you live in Ohio, here are a few things to keep in mind as you file your Ohio State tax forms for 2006.

Many people, especially those who are going to be receiving refunds are planning on using the newly popular I file system to file their taxes. Is it safe? According to the state of Ohio, it is. Many people also say it is a very easy system to use.

First, of all you must be registered, if this is the first time your ever used the Ohio I-file system, even if you filed taxes in Ohio previously. You will be registering through the Ohio Department of Taxation. They will ask you to fax them two forms of ID. Examples of acceptable forms of ID is as follows: drivers license, state ID card, social security card or military ID. They also need to have your birth date. They will verify that the ID’s you sent them is accurate, you will be allowed to enter the system and register. If you are first time tax filer in Ohio, you should call 1-800-282-1780 to begin the initiation process. If you have previously filed in Ohio, but you just haven’t used the Ohio I-file system before you can fax your request and ID’s to this phone number 1-206-600-6113. Of course, if you would like to speak to someone before you fax your ID’s you can go ahead and use the 1-800-282-1780 to speak to someone, also.

Are their benefits to filing online?

The obvious one is that you will receive your refund check quicker (sometimes as soon as 6 to 10 days) You also save a stamp and a trip to the post office.

Here are a few things you might not know about Ohio I File.

By filing online you do not need to do any math yourself. The system will perform the calculations for you. This saves on human error.

You don’t need an instruction manual to explain each line to you. Each line has a corresponding ? mark box. Click on the ? mark symbol and a new window will open explaining what the line means.

You also will have proof that you filed. No worrying about the papers getting lost in the mail. Once you hit the I agree button at the end of the filing, you will get a confirmation number. This number is proof that you filed your taxes.

You are also able to print a copy of your return to keep for your own records. You can file anytime, day or night. Best of all, it is free.

You can use the Ohio I-file system unless the following applies to you:

You are attempting to file an Ohio return prior to tax year 2001

You are attempting to file an Amended Ohio Return

You have more than nine (9) dependents

You are required to complete Ohio Schedule E

You have an Ohio Refundable Business Jobs Credit

You are filing a return for a deceased taxpayer as the executor or guardian

You have a foreign address or a military address or in care of address

You are entitled to a Lump Sum Distribution Credit

To begin filing using the Ohio I file system you will need:

Your completed federal income tax return

All of your W-2, W-2G, 1099 and K-1 forms

All your bank information for your savings or checking accounts if you want your refund directly deposited.

All your credit card information if you end up owing the state instead of getting a refund

Finally, a printer to copy your completed forms for your records.

Can your computer use the Ohio I-file system? Yes, you probably can use it. You just need a standard browser and have cookies enabled.

Last of all, yes, the Ohio I file systems is secure. It uses the latest technology to insure it stays that way, too.

If you live in Ohio and want your refund quick, think about using the Ohio I file system.